Executive Coaching: A Framework for HR Professionals to Maximize Results

Executive coaching has grown tremendously over the last twenty years as a
training method for management development. While anecdotal information
supports the contention that executive coaching is beneficial, empirical
research has been slower to corroborate its business impact. This Career
Savvy report examines the current state of executive coaching through a
review of the available literature, analyzes the implications of the
research, and contributes to the existing training literature by
recommending a framework for human resource professionals to follow when
adding executive coaching to their repertoire of management development
techniques. In addition, the Career Savvy report discusses the
implications for future research, recommending studies on the impact of
different coaching styles on outcomes and studies on the linkage between
executive coach knowledge, skills, and attitudes to outcomes. Such
research could help determine a more definitive list of required
qualifications for executive coaches, provide additional specificity for
training programs and credentialing requirements, and lend legitimacy to
the executive coaching profession.